Drivers should watch for short-term lane closings and crews and equipment filling potholes across southwest Missouri over the next several days, the Missouri Department of Transportation said.

Crews will work during the day today ahead of the rains. If necessary, crews will work Saturday to address the pavement issues. Crews will be back at it early next week to fill potholes that have developed after recent cold temperatures and winter storms.

Potholes are typical after moisture seeps into cracks in the pavement. The freeze/thaw cycle causes water to expand in the pavement which causes fissures and then a pothole.

Crews will address the worst and deepest potholes first and then will move to more minor potholes.

Drivers are urged to report potholes on the state highway system by call the MoDOT Customer Service line at 1.888.275.6636 or they can report them via email by going to the MoDOT Southwest District web site at www.modot.org/southwest .

For more information, call MoDOT at 417-895-7600 or visit modot.org/southwest.